A spirit of change was in the air at a church gathering in the highlands community of Rum, Enga Province, where MAF was invited to contribute with preaching and encouragement
Story by Tajs Jespersen
Christians are embracing hope and reconciliation in a region of PNG often plagued by tribal violence, as more young people make the decision to get baptised.
The positive message came out of the Baptist Union of Papua New Guinea’s (BUPNG) 50th anniversary celebrations which focused on the Biblical concept of jubilee – a time for peace and forgiven debts.
Pastor David Maini, the Ministry Director of BUPNG, was encouraged by the many people that came to the community of Rum to participate from different tribes all over Enga.
“I see lots of changes taking place in this gathering. I saw God walk in the lives of people. They were having disputes among themselves in the tribes and clans. Now they release the land to the original owners and many families will unite again,” said Pastor David Maini, Ministry Director of BUPNG
One of the people that travelled far is Pastor Dani Denge. He came from Lapalama, a six hour walk from Rum.
“We have come here to gather and hear the word of God. At our place we experience many challenges and times of sorrow. God can teach us new things through the pastors and the MAF outreach team to help us walk with him through these challenges,” said Pastor Dani.
The commemoration, which marks the 50-year anniversary of the 1973 revival in Enga, is a call for change going forward. BUPNG is committed to share the gospel for the next fifty years and beyond.
“The mission is to take the gospel across the nation with a holistic approach. He or she can be a teacher or a doctor. You can share the gospel of Jesus,” said Pastor David.
He said it’s a process that starts with the youth.
“Youth especially is growing tremendously, and we see that even young students in various schools, universities, and colleges are taking the initiative to come,” Pastor David added.
Over thirty young people decided to give their life to Jesus through baptism while gathered in Rum. You can watch the video showcasing the baptism ceremony below.